It's raining...

Woke up relatively early today for someone who's on study leave. Studied for a bit and took my grandma out for lunch, yes, even with the rain and all. We've got to eat! =P

Checked my mail just now and a friend gave me a link to the article "Path to true happiness 'revealed' ". I wonder why he e-mailed it to me. But anyway, here's the author's take of what the 10 steps to happiness should be:

-Plant something and nurture it
-Count your blessings - at least five - at the end of each day
-Take time to talk - have an hour-long conversation with a loved one each week
-Phone a friend whom you have not spoken to for a while and arrange to meet up
-Give yourself a treat every day and take the time to really enjoy it
-Have a good laugh at least once a day
-Get physical - exercise for half an hour three times a week
-Smile at and/or say hello to a stranger at least once each day
-Cut your TV viewing by half
-Spread some kindness - do a good turn for someone every day

Hmm, really? I'm thinking that there's actually no '10 steps to happiness'. Life IS made out of ups AND downs. Nobody'll have an 'up' life all the way. But perhaps these are pointers we can adopt to relax ourselves and relief ourselves from being too stressed out. Also, I would say that being happy and being joyful are two different things.

From a Christian perspective, our joy is complete when we become Christians. No, we don't laugh and have fun all the time but we just have the peace and the confidence that ultimately, our God is in control and He will work all things out for the GOOD of us who loves Him. And the basis of our joy is in knowing that nothing can separate us from God's saving grace and love. True, the journey may be tough, but it will be one that is worth it! =) What about you, what's your take?

Oh, it's stopped raining already. The weather's just perfect for an afternoon nap. But then again, maybe it's a sign that I should start studying again. NoOooOOooOOoooOOOO!!!!